Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts that produce uneasiness, apprehension, fear, or worry, by repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety, or by a combination of such thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions).

Symptoms may include repetitive handwashing; checking; extensive hoarding; preoccupation with sexual or aggressive impulses, or with particular religious beliefs; aversion to odd numbers; and nervous habits, such as opening a door and closing it a certain number of times before one enters or leaves a room. These symptoms can be alienating and time-consuming, and often cause severe emotional and financial distress. OCD sufferers, however, generally recognize their thoughts and subsequent actions as irrational, and they may become further distressed by this realisation.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers a clear and effective means in which to manage OCD, by tackling the important role of thoughts and behaviour which maintain and underpin the way you feel emotionally. Through this process you will be able to gain better control of your reactions to your personal triggers and master skills that can help you conquer your behaviours and underlying issues.

Treatment may comprise of conversational and belief change work, direct psychological education, behavioural and homework based tasks. Mindfulness training and imagery work may also be utilised to enhance your new skills through highly experiential means.